Bukayo Saka scored the only goal as Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park on Monday, maintaining the Premier League champions’ perfect start to the new season.
Saka settled the contest with a well-taken finish after being presented with the opportunity by Riccardo Calafiori, whose cross created the opening for the England winger.
Arsenal had to work for the victory, with Villa showing enough resistance to frustrate Mikel Arteta’s side for long periods.
The visitors, however, demonstrated the patience and defensive discipline that has become a feature of their title-winning campaign.
Villa were without some of the players who had recently departed for Premier League rivals, while several of their new signings were still waiting to make their full impact.
Despite that, Unai Emery’s side competed strongly and threatened to deny Arsenal a third consecutive victory.
Arsenal’s ability to grind out the result will please Arteta, although the narrow victory also raised questions about the depth of his attacking options.
With the transfer window set to close on Tuesday night, Arsenal still have an opportunity to strengthen their forward line. The club’s decision on whether to bring in another attacker could prove significant as the season progresses.
Villa pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but Arsenal’s defence remained composed.
The visitors managed the final minutes effectively, limiting Villa’s opportunities and protecting their slender advantage.
Arsenal will next face Chelsea at home on Sunday, while Aston Villa travel to Hull City on Saturday.
